If you are craving a comforting bowl of warmth that feels like a big, cozy hug, this Delicious Meatball Soup Recipe will quickly become your new favorite go-to. It balances tender, juicy meatballs with vibrant vegetables and a flavorful broth to deliver a bowl packed with hearty goodness and irresistible aroma. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner solution or a crowd-pleaser to share with friends, this soup brings together simple ingredients in a way that’s truly unforgettable.

Delicious Meatball Soup Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the right ingredients on hand is the first step to making this soup shine. Each component is straightforward but crucial; they create a layered depth of flavor, combining texture, color, and freshness that makes the whole dish sing.

1 lb lean ground beef: This forms the tender and juicy meatballs that are the star of the soup.
1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs: These help bind the meatballs, ensuring they hold their shape and stay moist.
1 large egg: Acts as a natural glue within the meatball mixture for perfect consistency.
1 medium onion, finely chopped: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth when mixed into the meatballs and broth.
3 cloves garlic, minced: A punch of flavor that lifts the whole soup with its aromatic presence.
1 cup diced carrots: These brighten the soup with a touch of sweetness and a lovely pop of color.
1 cup diced celery: Offers an earthy crunch that balances the softness of the meatballs and broth.
4 cups low-sodium chicken or beef broth: Provides a savory, rich base without overpowering the other ingredients.
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes: Delivers a gentle acidity and heartiness that ties the soup flavors together magnificently.

How to Make Delicious Meatball Soup Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

Begin by combining the lean ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper in a large bowl. Mix everything thoroughly but gently to avoid compacting the meat too much—this keeps the meatballs tender once cooked.

Step 2: Shape the Meatballs

Once your mixture is uniform, shape it into bite-sized meatballs about 1 inch in diameter. Placing them on a baking sheet as you go makes the process smooth and organized.

Step 3: Brown the Meatballs

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches to avoid overcrowding and brown each side for about 5 minutes. Browning not only locks in flavor but also adds a beautiful, caramelized exterior. Remove the browned meatballs and set them aside for the next step.

Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables

Using the same pot, toss in the diced carrots and celery. Sauté them until they soften and release their natural sweetness, about 5 minutes. This step builds the vegetable base that will complement the meatballs perfectly.

Step 5: Add Broth and Tomatoes

Pour in the low-sodium broth and the can of diced tomatoes, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture up to a gentle boil, which will marry all the flavors and prepare it for simmering.

Step 6: Simmer with Meatballs

Return the browned meatballs to the pot, reduce the heat to a gentle simmer, and let everything cook uncovered for about 20 minutes. This allows the meatballs to finish cooking through while soaking up the wonderful flavors of the broth and vegetables.

How to Serve Delicious Meatball Soup Recipe

Garnishes

To elevate your bowl, fresh garnishes like chopped parsley or basil add a refreshing hint of green and a pop of freshness that complements the hearty soup beautifully. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese can add a savory, umami touch that takes each spoonful to another level.

Side Dishes

Pair this soup with warm, crusty bread or garlic toast to sop up every bit of broth, or enjoy it alongside a crisp green salad for a lighter contrast. Either way, the sides should be simple, letting the delicious meatball soup take center stage.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the soup in rustic bowls with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil on top or a dollop of sour cream for a creamy twist. For a fun presentation, use mini crockpots or mason jars for casual gatherings—they keep the soup warm and bring an inviting charm to the table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This soup stores wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors meld together beautifully after resting, often tasting even better the next day.

Freezing

If you want to prepare this Delicious Meatball Soup Recipe ahead of time, freezing is a fantastic option. Freeze in portioned containers for up to three months. Just be sure to cool it completely before freezing to maintain the best texture and flavor.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over low to medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally. Avoid microwaving on high power, as this can toughen the meatballs or unevenly heat the broth. Adding a splash of broth or water during reheating helps restore the soup’s original consistency.

FAQs

Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare and shape the meatballs up to a day in advance. Store them covered in the refrigerator until you are ready to brown and cook them in the soup.

Can I substitute ground beef with other meats?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken work well if you want a leaner option. Ground pork can add richness, too. Just be mindful that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the meat’s fat content.

Is there a vegetarian version of this meatball soup?

While this recipe centers on meatballs made from beef, you can create a vegetarian version using lentil or chickpea-based “meatballs” and vegetable broth to keep the soup hearty and delicious.

How spicy is this soup? Can I add heat?

This Delicious Meatball Soup Recipe is mild, focusing on savory and comforting flavors. If you love a bit of heat, adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce during simmering is a simple way to kick up the spice level.

What is the best way to serve this soup for meal prepping?

Divide into single-serving containers after cooking and cooling. This makes it easy to grab a ready-to-eat lunch or dinner during the week. Just remember to reheat gently to maintain the meatballs’ tenderness.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about a bowl of homemade soup that fills not only your stomach but also your heart. This Delicious Meatball Soup Recipe is an effortless way to bring warmth and satisfaction to any table. Don’t wait for a chilly evening to dive into this cozy favorite—give it a try soon and enjoy every comforting, flavorful spoonful with those you love.

Delicious Meatball Soup Recipe

★★★★★

5.3 from 28 reviews

Author: anna
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Low Salt

Print Recipe

Description

This Delicious Meatball Soup is a hearty and comforting dish featuring tender homemade meatballs simmered in a flavorful broth with vegetables and diced tomatoes. Perfect for a cozy meal, this soup balances rich beef flavors with fresh vegetables for a nutritious and satisfying bowl.

Instructions

Prepare the meatball mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated, ensuring the meatballs hold together well.
Form meatballs: Shape the mixture into small meatballs roughly 1 inch in diameter. Place them evenly spaced on a baking sheet to prepare for cooking.
Brown the meatballs: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add meatballs in batches and brown them for about 5 minutes each batch, turning to get an even golden crust. Remove browned meatballs and set them aside on a plate.
Sauté vegetables: In the same pot with remaining oil and meatball drippings, add diced carrots and celery. Cook for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened, stirring occasionally to avoid burning.
Add broth and tomatoes: Pour in the low-sodium chicken or beef broth along with the canned diced tomatoes (including juices). Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.
Simmer the soup: Return the browned meatballs to the pot. Reduce heat to low and let the soup simmer uncovered for about 20 minutes, allowing the meatballs to cook through and flavors to meld.

Notes

Use lean ground beef to reduce fat content without sacrificing flavor.
You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter alternative.
Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper according to taste.
For a richer flavor, add a splash of red wine or Worcestershire sauce to the broth.
Serve with crusty bread or over cooked pasta for a more filling meal.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Soup
Method: Simmering
Cuisine: American